Neve 1073 EQ vs. API EQ

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I haven't used a Neve 1073, but many claim there's magic in this combination of Neve preamp and eq.

Not wanting to spend the $$$'s for a 1073, but having a Neve 1272 and some open slots in an API rack, I was wondering if the combination of a Neve 1272 + API eq (550, 553, 554 type) would approach the "magic" of the Neve 1073?

Obviously they have different eq points, topology, etc., but I would love to hear comments from anyone that may have compared mainly the eq sections of the 1073 with other eqs.

Is the 1073 in a class all by itself, or would the 1272/API EQ combination be in the same league?

[Tim R.]

The combination of 1272 and API 554 eq is a incredibly "magical" sound you can't get ANY other way. Just kidding (I'm the guy selling those 554's you were interested in).
In reality they have a "sound" just like the Neve's. I wouldn't say better or worse, but equally "magical" in there own way. I find the API stuff has a little crunch that to me says rock and roll. And in the same way as the Neve's it's hard to make them sound bad. I love my API's (I've got 553's, 550B's, 560B's and 554's). I've also worked on a Classic Neve 8058 console and I'd say the Neve might be a little more flexible but the API's really shine on drums, guitars and most Vocals.

Tim

[Kenny Gioia]

The cheaper than 1073 combination you're looking for would be a

Neve 1272 fron Brent Averill and
Daking EQ

I find this combination to be superior to a 1073.

I never loved the API Eq's. I sent mine back.

[Ask Otis]

Meanwhile, I love my api eq!
I use the 1073 for snare and kick amd the 560 for hi hat and ride, and either the 550 or a pultec ( or both) for vocal.

[Digi-Slime-NYC]

There are many types of api eqs that look similar but behave and sound differently.

The "magical" one that created the api eq reputaion is the original API 550 or 550a. Either must have 2 of the 2520 opamps. There's a "550a" with 1 opamp known as the "a-1" that's not as good. Some of the others have ICs as well.

The good api eqs will cost $1000+ each not including power supply. The less desirable ones can go for $400-$600.

[Pindy]

The 550b has 4 bands, is made currently and has 2x 2520s. It sounds great.

[Ask Otis]

Digi-slime is on to something. I should have mentioned that my rack has both 550a and 55b and 560a and 560b eq init and the different series sound different but not really better or worsejust different. More importantly DON'T SKIMP ON THE POWER SUPPLY!!! My first one was a cheap one and it killed the sound of the eq. Get a good one, it makes a difference, both for api and vintage neve modules. You can never be to "overbuilt" with power supplies.

[rtcstudio]

If you are pressed for cash, but would like the sound of a 1073 you might check out the Vintech Audio X73. They are modern boxes that use Neve components (mic pre/EQ). They are very well built, with a separate power supply that will run four units. Check out Vintech's site for info/reviews. I think they list for around $2k each and $250 for the power supply.

I have been using two units (rented) for a couple of weeks with great results on Acoustic and Electric guitars. They also have an instrument input on the front panel. I am currently recording some keyboard o/ds with them. Pretty nice and warm, with low noise. You might rent one and see if it works for you.

They even use the Neve knobs...

[Jacko2002]

I've used both API and NEVE preamps.
To me Neve is more agressive and bigger.
However if you want a smooth sound with nice top end API is the choice.